Underworld brought Kate Beckinsale firmly into the public eye. It was her turn as the action heroin vampire Selene in the 2003 film. Since then she has starred in numerous action films including Underworld: Evolution (2006) and Whiteout (2009). The Australian actress reprises her role in the Underworld series as Selene, a leather-clad vampire warrioress who escapes imprisonment to find herself in the world of both Vampire and Lycan clans discovered by humans. She leads the battle against humankind.

In honor of the release of Underworld: Awakening (2012), here are other actresses who have played vampires over the years.

Kristen Dunst gained widespread recognition for her role as vampire Claudia in Interview with the Vampire (1994). She was nominated for Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance.

Kristen Dunst gained widespread recognition for her role as vampire Claudia in Interview with the Vampire (1994).

In the 2003 League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Mina Harker was portrayed by actress Peta Wilson.

Moviegoers were absolutely scared and moved by Chloe Moretz’s role as the child vampire Abby in Let Me In.

Julie Benz is best known for playing Darla in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Darla was unassuming-looking and extremely deadly.

Salma Hayek played as Santanico Pandemonium in From Dusk Til Dawn. The vampire may look gorgeous but deadly.

Diechen Lachman played Izumi, a reclusive, centuries-old vampire royal who shakes things up when she returns to Boston.

Lena Olin played Ancient Vampire Maharet in the Queen of the Damned. The vampire was once an Egyptian witch. She later saved the world by helping Lestat and defeating Akasha.

In the Moonlight, Shannyn Sossamon played courtesan Coraline Duvall who turned Mick St, John into a vampire on their wedding night.

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